These cats are also known as Hemmingway cats as alluded by Lise. Some do have problems with getting their claws caught in things and not being able to un-hook. Otherwise it really isn't much of a problem for them.
One of my kitties growing up was named paws because he did have an extra toe. After several rescue from the trees, he learned not to climb trees.
They do have big PAWs.
Smilingcat
I cat sit a neighbor's cat named Steffi - a dainty and dignified 13-year old with BIG six-toed feet. Not sure she's learned to use her "thumbs" yet.
I used to petsit for a polydactyl kitty who was also a manx. She could be quite the pill but lots of fun. Her name was Toey. LOL!
My Dad has a 6 toed, 25# male cat. My DH and I do toenail clippings on him so they don't have to lug him to the vets. He's a lot of cat to fit in a cat carrier. He's got 5 toes in the back. His name is "squeaker", he couldn't meow as a kitten. He used to open mouth, attempt to meow, and as soon as all the "air was out" a little squeak would come.
A friend of mine has a 6-toed cat, and he is the BIGGEST cat I have ever seen. I bet he weighs at least 30 lbs. People come to her house just to see her cat. He is a Main Coon rescue named Ricky.
Regular #d toed cats at Hemingway House do get neutered. & some of the 6-toed ones. But they want to make sure the line is continued.
Supposedly Hemingway was given the original 6-toer by a sea captain. He is their ancestor.
Tiki is really pretty. Petey has short hair. I'll have to get a picture of him on this thread. He has 6 toes on all four feet. His hind legs look like he has them on the "wrong feet." He's so much fun. Loves those little tiny mice to play with. He will play fetch with them. We throw the fake mouse and he retrieves it.
Tis better to wear out than to rust out....
DH had a 6 toed cat that survived the Oakland fire storm in 90. He was a big black cat. He passed away last year. We now have a 6 toed pixie bob. She looks a like a silver tabby but has black tuffs on her ears and a pink nose. She is cute and a hellon....haven't convinced her that the other kitty is not dinner.
Amanda
2011 Specialized Epic Comp 29er | Specialized Phenom | "Marie Laveau"
2007 Cannondale Synapse Carbon Road | Selle Italia Lady Gel Flow | "Miranda"
You don't have to be great to get started, but you do have to get started to be great. -Lee J. Colan